All India Pickleball Association Dispute: A conflict has erupted in Indian pickleball after the Sports Ministry recognized the Indian Pickleball Association (IPA) as the national body on April 25, 2025. The All India Pickleball Association (AIPA), active since 2008, has opposed the decision and may take legal action against the move.
Government Recognition Sparks Controversy
The Sports Ministry’s decision allows the IPA to receive grants and oversee the sport across India. The IPA, formed in November 2024, now has the authority to regulate, develop, and promote pickleball nationally.
“This is a defining moment, but we see it as just the beginning. Our focus is firmly on the future, building a pipeline of talent, creating career opportunities, and ensuring every Indian has access to the joy and benefits of pickleball,” IPA President Suryaveer Singh Bhullar posted on Instagram.
However, the AIPA, which claims to have introduced pickleball to India in 2007–08, has raised objections. The organization says the move lacks transparency and violates rules outlined in the National Sports Code.
AIPA Claims Violation of Sports Code
AIPA President Arvind Prabhoo issued a strong statement: “This decision is not only disheartening but raises serious concerns regarding transparency and fairness in sports governance. In the interest of fair play and sportsmanship, we urge the Ministry to reconsider its decision and uphold the values of clean sports.”
According to the 2011 National Sports Code, a body must be in existence for more than three years to qualify as a National Sports Federation. AIPA was registered in 2008, while IPA was only registered in late 2024.
AIPA also suggested the recognition of IPA may have been influenced by lobbying. “The AIPA gave a representation to the Sports Ministry on October 18 last year. But the Ministry has decided to grant recognition to a four-month old company that has no organisational set-up, no district level presence like us,” said AIPA Treasurer Nikhil Mathare.
“Given the exemptions that have been made for AIPA, we are left with no choice but to take legal recourse. But we will have a conversation with the ministry before we proceed with it,” he added.
Similar Disputes Seen Globally
Pickleball has faced similar governance issues at the global level. Three organizations currently claim to be the sport’s international body: the International Pickleball Federation (IPF), founded in 2010; the World Pickleball Federation (WPF), founded in 2018; and the Global Pickleball Federation (GPF), formed in 2023 after the USA separated from the IPF.
This pattern of disputes shows how quickly the sport’s growth is leading to leadership conflicts.
The current situation in India could affect the sport’s development, funding, and athlete participation. The AIPA’s potential legal challenge may delay official events and programs under the new body. A final resolution will likely depend on further talks with the Ministry or court rulings.
News in Brief: All India Pickleball Association dispute
India’s pickleball community is divided after the Sports Ministry gave national body status to the Indian Pickleball Association. The older All India Pickleball Association is opposing the move, calling it unfair. They plan to talk to the ministry and may take legal action over the recognition decision.
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